The Reluctant Dragon (movie) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Reluctant Dragon |
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|---|---|
| Directed by | Alfred Werker (live action) Hamilton Luske (animation) |
| Produced by | Walt Disney |
| Written by | Live-action: Ted Sears Al Perkins Larry Clemmons Bill Cottrell Harry Clork Robert Benchley (uncredited) The Reluctant Dragon segment: Kenneth Grahame (original book) Erdman Penner T. Hee Baby Weems segment: Joe Grant Dick Huemer John Miller |
| Starring | Robert Benchley Frances Gifford Buddy Pepper Nana Bryant |
| Editing by | Paul Weatherwax |
| Studio | Walt Disney Productions |
| Distributed by | RKO Radio Pictures |
| Release date(s) | January 2, 1941 (Short Movie) June 20, 1941 (Segment) |
| Running time | 74 minutes |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
The Reluctant Dragon is a fun movie from 1941. It mixes real-life actors with amazing animation. Walt Disney himself produced this film. It came out on June 20, 1941. The movie takes you on a special tour. You get to see the brand-new Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California.
Contents
A Tour of Disney Studios
This movie is like a behind-the-scenes look at Disney. It shows how cartoons were made back then. The first part of the film is in black-and-white. It features famous radio comedian Robert Benchley. He plays himself, exploring the studio. You also see many real Disney artists. These include Ward Kimball, Fred Moore, and Norman Ferguson. Even Walt Disney appears in the movie!
Exploring Animation
As Robert Benchley walks around, he discovers different parts of the studio. He sees artists drawing and painting. He learns about the steps to create animated characters. This part of the movie is mostly live-action. It helps viewers understand the magic of animation. It shows the hard work that goes into every cartoon.
Animated Shorts in the Movie
The last two-thirds of The Reluctant Dragon are in bright Technicolor. This is where the animated fun really begins! The movie includes four short cartoons. One black-and-white part shows Casey Junior. He is the train from the movie Dumbo.
Colorful Cartoon Fun
There are three more animated shorts in full Technicolor:
- Baby Weems: This cartoon is about a super-smart baby. He knows everything!
- Goofy's How to Ride a Horse: This is a classic Goofy cartoon. He tries to learn how to ride a horse. As you can guess, it's full of silly mistakes!
- The Reluctant Dragon: This cartoon is the main event. It's based on a book by Kenneth Grahame. The story is about a friendly dragon. He doesn't want to fight knights. He prefers poetry and tea!
This movie is a unique blend of reality and fantasy. It gives a peek into Disney's early days. It also shares some classic cartoon stories.
